Man assaults girlfriend over refusal to share phone password

A 23-year-old man from Pumula North has found himself in court after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend for refusing to unlock her phone.

Francis Matutu reportedly became enraged when his nurse aide girlfriend, Mpho Nyegera, declined to give him her cellphone password, leading to a series of violent incidents that ended in his arrest.

Prosecutor Tumeli Hindoga told the court that the trouble began on 28 November 2025 at around 7PM when Matutu demanded access to Nyegera's phone. Upon her refusal, he allegedly grabbed the device and hurled it against a wall, causing damage valued at US$120.

The situation escalated on 26 December 2025 at Hawkers Pub in Bulawayo. Matutu reportedly snatched Nyegera's handbag, containing an Itel phone and cash worth US$90, and assaulted her with open hands when she confronted him in front of bystanders. The stolen items were valued at US$140, and none have been recovered.

Matutu faces assault and theft charges and was remanded in custody until 9 January for sentencing. Observers in court noted that his arrest appeared to have sobered him, highlighting the consequences of letting jealousy and obsession override respect and personal boundaries.

The case serves as a stark reminder that trust and respect are fundamental in relationships, and that violent reactions to personal boundaries carry serious legal consequences.